KINGSTON, Jamaica — SCJ Holdings Limited (SCJH) is imploring persons seeking land for housing or other purposes to pursue legitimate channels and engage formally with the entity.

The appeal comes as the company intensifies efforts to address the growing issue of illegal occupation and unauthorised sale of Government-owned former sugar lands across several parishes.

Speaking with JIS News, Managing Director, Nigel Myrie, said there has been an increase in encroachment on lands historically associated with sugar production, particularly in St Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland and Clarendon.

He noted that the situation has escalated beyond informal squatting, with individuals Illegally subdividing and selling lands to which they have no legal claim.

“We are now in possession of the names of individuals identified as ringleaders in these illicit land transactions involving SCJ-owned properties,” Myrie told JIS News.

SCJ Holdings has already commenced coordinated enforcement actions with municipal corporations in Trelawny and St Thomas, where notices have been served on persons engaged in unauthorised occupation and construction.

Similar partnerships are being extended to other affected parishes.

Myrie said the company has implemented several measures, including the installation of ‘No Trespassing’ signs, issuance of cease-and-desist orders, and notices to vacate. He indicated that the organisation is prepared to escalate enforcement where necessary.

“One of the enforcement options available to us is demolition. We may be compelled to remove some of these illegal structures in short order, as we have a responsibility to protect Government-owned lands,” he stated.

He further advised that SCJ Holdings may pursue legal action, including seeking court orders to facilitate the removal of illegal structures at the occupants’ expense.

Myrie pointed out that many of these informal settlements are being established in unsuitable and high-risk locations, including swampy, flood-prone and environmentally sensitive areas, without the requisite approvals or supporting infrastructure.

“These settlements lack essential services such as road access, water supply, electricity and other basic amenities,” he noted.

He pointed out that such developments pose significant risks not only to occupants but also to neighbouring communities, citing concerns related to restricted emergency access, environmental degradation, and potential conflicts with legitimate leaseholders.

Myrie is urging members of the public to avoid engaging in unofficial land transactions and instead work directly with SCJ Holdings to secure lawful access to land.

“Engaging in these transactions supports criminal activity. Individuals are paying for land from persons who cannot provide legal title or proof of ownership,” said Myrie.

He noted that illegal developments are under constant surveillance.

“We utilise satellite imagery extensively. From the moment groundwork begins, we are able to detect and monitor these activities. These developments are not hidden,” he said.

Affected areas include sections of St Thomas, Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Clarendon and St Mary.

—    JIS